Governor Bago Seeks Approval for N70 Billion Bond to Complete Key Projects in Niger State

Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State has submitted a formal request to the State House of Assembly, seeking approval to issue a ₦70 billion bond to fund the completion of critical developmental projects across the state.

The proposed bond forms part of a broader ₦100 billion bond issuance scheme planned for 2025, which was approved by the State Executive Council during its 55th session on April 22, 2025.

“The proposed bond is intended to finance critical projects in key sectors such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, water supply, and inter- and intra-state connectivity,” Governor Bago stated in his letter to the Assembly.

The proposal was read during Monday’s plenary session by Deputy Speaker Hon. Afiniki Eunice Dauda and has been forwarded to the House Standing Committee on Finance for legislative scrutiny and recommendations.

The bond, if approved, will provide the state government with the financial capacity to accelerate key capital projects and improve public service delivery in strategic sectors.

In other legislative developments, the Assembly also considered a private member bill introduced by Hon. Murtala Adamu Badaru aimed at regulating the operations of panteka businesses, old metal merchants, and scavengers in residential areas across Niger State.

The bill seeks to curb indiscriminate metal scrapping, protect public safety, and formalize the activities of scrap dealers to align with urban planning and environmental standards.

The House further debated a bill proposing the creation of the Niger State Facilities Management Agency, which would be responsible for maintaining public buildings, assets, and infrastructure across the state.

Following initial debate, the proposed legislation was referred to the House Standing Committee on Works and Infrastructure for further deliberation. The committee is expected to submit its report within two weeks.